18 Times Too Many In First Two Months Of 2018

Following the Feb. 14 attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, the most commonly searched figure was 18 according to Google, matching the number of gun-related incidents at schools in 2018 alone.

Many students, parents, families and friends took to social media the night of the tragedy to demand action. Many called out the National Rifle Association, local and federal governments, while some specifically targeted President Trump.

The idea of a school shooting haunts many who hope to see themselves in the education field in the future. Amalia Cardella, sophomore, is one of those individuals afraid of what lies ahead.

“As a student, no one should have to be afraid to go to school,” said Cardella. “As a teacher, no one should be afraid to go to work, and education majors should not be afraid of their future careers.”

There are many different thoughts on how to go about creating change, including proposals to ban AR-15 weaponry. Arguments range from taking guns away, arming teachers and/or limiting the types of guns that citizens can own. Regardless of the stance, the continuous nature of these attacks has marred the minds of many around campus.

“With the way society is going, looking at the desensitization of mass murders and the normalization of violence in the media, these crimes will only continue,” said Maria Kahn, sophomore. “While the second amendment is important, a definitive effort needs to be implemented in order to make change.”

Many politicians have strongly asserted that the change is up to the younger generation. Houston Congressman Al Green recently made the point that the youth fought for civil rights and created change back in the 1960s. Green is of a mindset similar to that of many students, that the generations growing up with phones and computers can shape the next few decades to come.

“Both the millennials and Generation Z must work together to make the change for us and the kids of the future,” said Diego Ruiz, senior. “We must not only protest against our government, but take action by getting educated and helping make a difference in each other’s lives by being nice to one another.”

Cardella, the aspiring high school teacher, agrees changes must be made in the education field to respond to situations like Parkland.

“Something needs to be done about gun control, but schools need more funding for mental health,” said Cardella. “We need smaller student-teacher ratios so that we will be able to actually get to know students as individuals and spot some of the issues early.”

18 incidents later, the country is left wondering what is next. If the thoughts of these Lynn students are any indication, change just might be on the horizon.

David Czarlinsky

David Czarlinsky is in his second year in the 3.0 program, pursuing a degree in communication and emerging media. Originally from Charlotte, N.C., Czarlinsky has gotten very involved on campus, serving as a resident assistant and president of his fraternity.